Word Origin & History

offend early 14c., "to sin against (someone)," from M.Fr. offendre, from L. offendere "strike against, stumble, commit a fault, displease," from ob "against" + fendere "to strike" (found only in compounds). Meaning "to violate (a law), to make a moral false step, to commit a crime" is from late 14c. Meaning "to wound the feelings" is from late 14c. The literal sense of "to attack, assail" is attested from late 14c.; this has been lost in Modern English, but is preserved in offense and offensive.

Example Sentences for offend

The honors heaped upon Giordano by the Marquess of Heliche, compelled him to neglect and offend other patrons.

He will hide His Word in your heart that you offend not against Him.

I do not recollect to have said any thing of you that could offend,—certainly, nothing intentionally.

They are probably—but perhaps I offend you in talking this way.

More obnoxious than Chinese stenchpots are these dispositions which offend the spiritual sense.

I shall try and not offend you, for you are such a stranger.

I trust that honesty cannot offend me, however much and justly it may pain me.

It will never do to offend his High Mightiness, angry as we may be with him.

I responded carelessly, not wishing to offend him,Have it your own way!

"You must be very careful, Julia, not to offend or trouble her in any way," he said.